Palliative Care. What is it?

Palliative care is a form of medical care that aims to alleviate the physical and emotional symptoms of serious illnesses. It is frequently given to those with terminal conditions, like cancer, but may also be helpful for those experiencing other severe conditions like kidney disease or heart failure.

The main goal of palliative care is to enhance the quality of life for those seriously ill and their families. This can include managing physical symptoms such as pain or difficulty breathing, as well as providing emotional and spiritual support. Palliative care may also involve coordinating care with other healthcare providers and assisting with end-of-life decision-making.Palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness and is often given in addition to treatment for the underlying condition. It can be provided in a hospital, nursing home, or at home, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences.

A palliative care team generally includes doctors, nurses, social workers, personal support workers, and chaplains, as well as other specialists like pharmacists, physical therapists, and dieticians. These professionals work together to address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the patient and their family. One of the key advantages of palliative care is its holistic approach, addressing the needs of the whole person, not just their physical symptoms. The palliative care team works to understand the patient’s goals and preferences and helps them to achieve those goals. This may involve supporting the patient in managing their physical symptoms and providing emotional and spiritual support.Another significant aspect of palliative care is its emphasis on communication and coordination. The palliative care team works closely with the patient and their family to ensure all of their needs are met and to coordinate care with other healthcare providers as needed. This can reduce stress and confusion for the patient and their family and lead to better outcomes.In summary, palliative care is an important part of medical care that aims to alleviate the physical and emotional symptoms of serious illnesses. It is provided by a team of healthcare professionals who work together to address the needs of the whole person and their family. Palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious disease and can significantly improve the quality of life for the patient and their loved ones whilst creating memories together.

Do you think your loved ones need a support worker as part of their team? contact us for more details. 647-581-5836 or 647-778-6732